Discover outdoor adventures, scenic trails, and family fun along the shores of Lake Wallenpaupack, one of the largest lakes in Pennsylvania.
Overview
Lake Wallenpaupack is one of those places that seems to offer something for everyone. Whether you’re hiking the Wallenpaupack Lake Trail, boating on calm waters, casting for largemouth bass, or simply soaking in the natural beauty of the Pocono Mountains, it’s easy to see why it’s such a great spot for locals and visitors alike. Set between Pike County and Wayne County, this lake is surrounded by acres of forest lands, charming small towns like Hawley, and endless outdoor activities perfect for all skill levels.
Lake Wallenpaupack didn’t always exist. In 1926, the Pennsylvania Power & Light Company (also called the “light company” by locals) created the lake by damming Wallenpaupack Creek to generate hydroelectric power. In the process, an entire town was relocated, and the 250-acre piece of land became one of the state’s top recreation areas. Over the years, Lake Wallenpaupack has become a beloved spot for future generations to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors.
Feeding the ducks at the edge of the lake
Map of the Wallenpaupack Lake area
Wallenpaupack Lake Plan
Since the Lake Wallenpaupack Trail was just a short drive from our rental home, we made a plan to walk a bit of it one afternoon. We weren’t aiming for a big hike—just a chance to stretch our legs, get some fresh air, and finally see the lake up close. The trail looked like a good mix of easy walking and scenic views, and we were hoping to spot some wildlife along the way. It felt like the perfect way to break up the day, enjoy the outdoors, and appreciate a bit of what the Lake Wallenpaupack area has to offer without straying too far from home base.
Stephanie and Justin at the lake
Playing on the rocks by the lake
Getting There
Location
You’ll find Lake Wallenpaupack in northeastern Pennsylvania, straddling Pike and Wayne Counties. The lake spans 13 miles in length with 52 miles of shoreline and covers about 5,700 acres—making it one of the largest lakes in the state. It’s about a two-hour drive from New York City or New Jersey, and only 45 minutes from Scranton. The Lake Wallenpaupack Visitors Center on Route 6 is the perfect place to start.
If you’re flying in, the nearest airport is Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP), about an hour’s drive southwest of the lake. It’s the most convenient option for travelers arriving from out of state, especially those coming from New Jersey or other parts of the East Coast. From the airport, you’ll travel through the scenic backroads of northeastern Pennsylvania, passing small towns and dense forests on your way to one of the perfect places for a relaxing getaway.
Best Time to Go
The summer months are ideal, especially between Memorial Day Weekend and late August, when the Lake Wallenpaupack area is full of life and energy. Warm weather brings people out for swimming at the Palmyra Township Public Beach, Wallenpaupack Scenic Boat Tours, and all kinds of water sports like paddleboarding, kayaking, jet skiing, and tubing. Summer also hosts Wally Lake Fest, a fun-filled weekend event with live music, food vendors, craft fairs, and outdoor activities on and around the lake—a true celebration of lake life.
In the fall, the surrounding dense forests burst into fiery shades of orange, red, and gold, making it a prime time for leaf-peeping along trails like Shuman Point and the Wallenpaupack Lake Trail. The crisp air and fewer crowds also make it a great time to enjoy nature in peace.
Winter transforms the lake into a wonderland, offering opportunities for cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and snowy strolls along more wooded trails. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot animal tracks in the snow or even a frozen waterfall nearby.
Spring is the quietest season, but it’s no less beautiful. Melting snow feeds creeks and waterfalls, like those in nearby Bushkill Falls, often called the Niagara of Pennsylvania. The early blooms and quiet paths are perfect for easy walking, short trails, and spotting wildlife reawakening after winter.
Tyler on the lake rocks
Ryan by the edge of the lake
Wallenpaupack Lake in Northeast Pennsylvania
Who Can Go?
Literally anyone. Families with small children, solo hikers, anglers, mountain bikers, and seniors will all find perfect places around the lake. Many trails are easy hikes, and there are benches, picnic spots, and educational programs for kids. Even your dog can come along—just be sure to respect private property boundaries and the state game lands.
What You'll See
Expect to be wowed by scenic walks, stone walls, black bear sightings (at a safe distance), and miles of trails wrapping around the water and cutting through forested areas. Highlights include:
- The Wallenpaupack Lake Trail, an easy trail offering best views of the lake.
- Shuman Point Natural Area, a loop through peaceful woods.
- The Wallenpaupack Creek Trail, a short trail with a back trail option near Hawley.
- Bushkill Falls, known as the Niagara of Pennsylvania, is a great side trip.
- Lacawac Sanctuary, a protected area for environmental education and birding.
Darrell climbed out to a rock on the lake
Jenn feeding the ducks
What to Bring & Wear
Dress for the weather and wear comfy shoes—many trails are gravel or dirt. Bring sunscreen, water, bug spray, a picnic blanket, and a camera for those perfect spot selfies. If you plan to fish for smallmouth or largemouth bass, don’t forget your Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission license. Swimmers and boaters will need towels, bathing suits, and water shoes.
Where to Go
Start at the Lake Wallenpaupack Visitors Center to store information, pick up maps, and learn about local events. Popular choices include:
- Palmyra Township Public Beach for a family beach day
- Wallenpaupack Scenic Boat Tours to cruise the lake
- Shuman Point for a peaceful hike
- Paws Wild Animal Park for the kids
- Dorflinger Glass Museum and Church Street in Hawley for some local history and local cuisine
- Varden Conservation Area or Delaware State Forest for quieter trails
- Lake Lacawac and Promised Land State Park for a longer hike
How Long Does it Take?
That depends on your plans. You could spend an hour on a short trail, a morning on a nature trail, or an entire day boating, hiking, and eating your way through Hawley. If you’re doing multiple hikes or plan to hit all the hot spots, budget a full weekend to enjoy the Lake Wallenpaupack area.
Walking along the trail by the side of Lake Wallenpaupack
Hanging out by the lake
Cost
Most hiking trails and natural areas are free, including Shuman Point and Varden Conservation Area. The public beach may charge a small entry fee in peak season. Boat launches managed by the Fish & Boat Commission may also require permits. Some attractions, like Paws Wild Animal Park or boat tours, have admission fees.
Tips for Wallenpaupack Lake in Northeast Pennsylvania
- Arrive early, especially on weekends—some parking lots fill fast, even with large parking areas.
- Respect private property signs—some land around the lake is not open to the public.
- Pack out what you pack in. Help preserve one of the last undeveloped areas for future generations.
- Check the Wallenpaupack Brewing Company for a refreshing post-hike drink.
- Avoid peak heat by hiking in the early morning or evening.
- Want even more adventure? Pair your visit with Upper Woods Pond, Prompton State Park, or a paddle on the Delaware River.